2011 Ap English Language Composition Free Response Questions (Form B)

Government Involvement Regarding “Green Policy” Energy, natural resources, conservation—these are all hot topics in Washington today. But, to what extent should the United States government be responsible? America is in desperate need of a “green revolution” (Friedman). However, the problem is not only America’s; the entire globe suffers from the effects of global warming (graph). While it is undeniable that the American government needs to develop initiatives regarding energy conservation and anti-global warming legislation, would their effect be enough? Would the process be worthwhile? It would. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, or EDF, “… we can solve climate change, invest in a clean energy future, and save billions in imported oil” (Samuelson). Many argue that the United States government cannot afford to become involved in energy initiatives and anti-global warming legislation; to counter, what other alternatives does the nation have? With the typical “family spend[ing] about $1,900 per year on home utility bills,” energy is costing this nation a fortune (“Energy Savers”). “With 2.5 people ii the average household,” family spending would drop from $1,900 per year to $91.25 per year (Samuelson). To say our government cannot afford this concept is an inaccurate, false, misguided statement. However, would America’s efforts alone be enough? After all, this is a global issue. The Energy Information Administration states “the United States, China, Russia, Japan, and India … account for fifty-four percent of the world’s total carbon dioxide emissions…” (graph). In contrast, recent polls express that Americans are not the only ones interested in energy conservation (graph). The “Gallup Polls conducted in 2007 show that” America, Japan, China, Russia, and India have all attempted to reduce negative environmental impacts by the following: “using less water in [the] household”, avoiding “using certain products that harm the environment”, “voluntarily